Official | Brice Samba joins Rennes from Lens | OneFootball

Stade Rennais have officially confirmed the arrival of France international Brice Samba (30) from RC Lens on a contract until 2029. The goalkeeper becomes the second signing of the winter window for Les Rogues et Noirs and addresses a key need for the squad.

Finding a successor for Steve Mandanda (39) whose contract expires this year has been a priority for Rennes. Last summer, the club had looked at bringing in a new goalkeeper but were unable to find a suitable signing.

Samba looks to be a good choice, the goalkeeper is a clear leader and extremely comfortable with the ball at his feet (a glaring need under the current head coach Jorge Sampaoli). Rennes had endeavoured to make this transfer occur despite some complications.

Brice Samba’s transfer held up by Lens search for a replacement

Despite reaching an agreement in principle with Lens, the transfer stalled last week and was only made possible when Les Sang et Or brought in Pau López on loan from Olympique de Marseille yesterday evening.

GFFN | Nick Hartland